July, 2014 - CAMBRIDGE, UK

A one and a half hour train ride takes us to Cambridge, the home of son James and DIL Maria.  they gave us a tour of the city, including the College where Maria studied.  We took in a Shakespeare in the Park presentation of a Mid Summer's Nights Dream.  It was a great visit.

We arrive early and use the time to explore a Catholic Church.

It has some interesting Gargoyles, but other than that is much like the churches we have seen to date.

The Colleges of Cambridge University usually surround a private central courtyard.

Cornwall Pasties have arrived in Cambridge.

The streets are crowded with a mix of students and tourists.

Sandra, with our guides, James and Maria.

Students take tourists punting on the river Cam.  I did not know that Cambridge is name for the bridge over the river Cam.  Good old English logic.

Many of the Colleges have gardens that are open to the public.

 

July, 2014 - SUTTON HOO, UK

We did a day trip to the Saxon burial ground at Sutton Hoo, near Woodbridge, in the English county of Suffolk.  My favorite historical site so far in England.  The find changed the perception of the Saxons, from a barbaric warier people to a much more "civilized" one with accomplished craftsmen and artisans and a society where women played a significant role.  Also, about 70 to 80 % of the English language originated with the Saxons.

Mounds as seen from the property owners home.  She started the excavations in the 1930's after seeing ghostly Saxon Warriors walking across the burial site.

The main mound, up close and personal.

Me as a Saxon Warrior.

Warrior's Helmet.

Decorative pouch.

Belt Buckle.

Staff decoration.

Helmet reconstruction.